Harlen Coben is a prolific writer, churning out popular novels just like Stephen King and Dean Koontz. The difference is that his novels are firmly set in reality, offering thrillers and mysteries that leave you guessing until the end.
Coben’s latest offering, Home, is deeply personal because it’s a tale that any of us could potentially relate to. Ten years after two young boys disappeared, one of them is rescued and returned home but he is so traumatised that he’s unable to reveal what happened to the other. His family wants to protect him, but others need to know the deeper truth.
Home is the 11th novel to feature the character Mylon Bolitar, who first appeared in Corben’s 1995 novel, Deal Breaker. Despite the continuation of the relationships between investigator Mylon, his billionaire friend Win, and cross-dressing associate Esperanza, the story is stand-alone and easily followed without any of the background knowledge. Historical references between these three could easily pass as white noise because it cements their connection without the need to know the intricacies of their history.
Corben is an expert at twisting his narrative so the final reveal remains unexpected. Like his recent bestseller, Fool Me Once, Corben has once again built a tense mystery filled with red herrings, danger and shady characters. There is no guarantee than any party is innocent, including the main players.
Character-wise, Corben’s troupe is on the James Bond side of reality with unlimited funds, an extensive network of contacts and deadly combat skills but he manages to focus his story on the more intimate reality of grieving parents and struggling families.
Existing Coben fans won’t be disappointed by his tense new mystery, while newcomers to his writing are sure to be enthralled his characters and the mystery that drives them forward.
Reviewed by Rod Lewis
Twitter: @StrtegicRetweet
Rating out of 10: 8
Publisher: Penguin Australia
Release Date: September 2016
RRP: $32.99 paperback, $42.99 hardback, $16.99 eBook
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